This certificate program prepares students to work as radiation protection personnel in Canadian nuclear facilities, in medical laboratories producing nuclear isotopes, and in health care facilities that support nuclear medicine. Understanding the regulations that govern nuclear facilities, techniques for ensuring safety in nuclear facilities, and emergency preparation are important components of the program.

The program consists of one 15-week Fall semester and one 16-week Winter semester. Through a combination of classroom lectures, simulated labs, and online activities, students learn the theory related to atomic structure of matter, the science of radioactivity, the effects of radiation on living matter, and how to detect and measure radiation levels using various instruments. At the end of the second semester, students participate in a 30-hour (minimum) job shadowing experience at a facility licensed by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

Graduates of the program have the technical background, theoretical knowledge, and practical skills needed to complete radiation safety assessments and to provide advice on radiation protection in the workplace.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Enjoy working as a team member.
• Possess good communication skills and interpersonal abilities.
• Enjoy working with mathematical problems.
• Possess critical-thinking skills.